matchlock — English Dictionary

Noun

1. Early type of firearm, using a smoldering piece of cord to fire the powder in the firing pan.

   Usage

   • Historical

   Examples

   I crept silently up the hill-road, but the fuse of my matchlock was wetted with the rain, and I could not slay Daoud Shah from afar.

2. The gunlock used in such a weapon, having a slow smouldering match.

Noun

1. an early style of musket; a slow-burning wick would be lowered into a hole in the breech to ignite the charge

   Broader terms

   musket